i8o RIVERSIDE LETTERS xxm 



beside the lilies crocuses, scillas, and some 

 Spanish irises ; there are, too, some Iceland 

 poppies ; possibly the lilies have been crowded 

 to one side by the growth around them. 



We went over to Bradfielcl College last 

 Thursday, to see the Greek play Alccstis. 

 No doubt you have read about these per- 

 formances, which are given entirely in the 

 open air in a well-constructed amphitheatre. 

 The proscenium and all the accessories are 

 designed with the utmost care and taste, the 

 classic effect of the whole being very striking. 

 All the while the performance was going on, 

 when we were there, there was a lovely blue 

 sky overhead, and sweet birds were singing 

 amidst the wild rose-bushes and clematis, 

 birch, ash, and walnut-trees, with which the 

 summit of the amphitheatre is surrounded. 

 In the centre of the semicircular pavement is 

 an altar, on which incense is kept burning. 

 The dresses of the actors and chorus are 

 admirably designed and the colours most har- 

 monious. The acting is animated and free 



